Life is messy. Whether it’s a knocked-over glass of red wine, muddy paw prints on the stairs, or that mystery stain in your car’s backseat, you need a solution that’s faster than hiring a professional and more effective than a paper towel. For years, the “Little Green” machine has been the default choice, but Hoover has entered the chat with a serious contender.

The Hoover CleanSlate Plus (FH14050) combines powerful suction with a versatile tool kit designed to tackle messes anywhere. With its specialized “Widepath” tool and a dedicated “Hose Rinse” feature, it claims to be more efficient and hygienic than its rivals. But is it worth the upgrade over the standard model?

We analyzed its performance on pet stains, upholstery, and auto interiors to see if it truly cleans the slate or just wets the surface. Let’s dive in.

1. What is the Hoover CleanSlate Plus?

The Hoover CleanSlate Plus is a portable carpet and upholstery cleaner designed for spot cleaning. Unlike the larger Hoover SmartWash+ which cleans whole rooms, this unit is compact and easy to carry. It works by spraying water and cleaning solution into the fabric, scrubbing it with a brush tool, and then powerfully suctioning the dirty water back into a separate tank.

The “Plus” designation refers to the enhanced accessory kit included with this model, specifically designed for pet owners and car detailing enthusiasts who need more than just a basic nozzle.

2. Key Features & Tools

The Widepath Tool

Most portable cleaners come with a tiny 3-inch nozzle. The CleanSlate Plus includes a 7-inch Widepath Tool. This covers more surface area with every pass, making it significantly faster to clean larger spills or wide stair treads. It also has a bristle insert for scrubbing and a rubber nub insert for trapping pet hair.

Tight Spot Tool

For crevices, corners, and tough-to-reach areas (like between sofa cushions or car seats), the Tight Spot Tool is a lifesaver. It concentrates the suction power into a small area, pulling out deep-set grime that wider tools miss.

Hose Rinse Tool

One common complaint with portable cleaners is the smell that develops in the hose over time. Hoover solves this with the included Hose Rinse Tool. You attach it to the end of the hose, and it flushes clean water through the tube, clearing out any trapped dirt or bacteria after you are done cleaning.

3. Performance Test: Pets & Cars

Pet Stain Removal

When paired with the included Oxy solution, the CleanSlate Plus is highly effective on biological stains. The suction is strong enough to pull liquid from the carpet pad, which is essential for odor removal. The rubberized bristles on the pet tool do an excellent job of grabbing fur while you scrub.

Auto Detailing

This machine is a favorite for car interiors. The long cord and flexible hose allow you to reach the back seats easily. The Tight Spot Tool is perfect for the “crumb zone” between the center console and the driver’s seat. Compared to the cordless Hoover CleanSlate Cordless, this wired version offers sustained, fade-free suction for as long as you need it.

4. Hoover CleanSlate vs. Bissell Little Green

The rivalry is real. How does it compare to the Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe?

• Suction: Hoover feels slightly more powerful, leaving carpets drier.
• Tools: Hoover’s Widepath tool is superior for larger areas like stairs.
• Maintenance: Hoover’s Hose Rinse tool makes cleanup much easier than the standard Bissell models (though some deluxe Bissells now include a similar feature).
• Design: The low-profile shape of the Hoover sits more securely on stairs than the rounded Bissell.

Verdict: Choose Hoover if you want faster cleaning on larger spots (stairs/cars). Choose Bissell if you prefer the classic design and slightly larger tank capacity.

5. Technical Specifications

6. Pros & Cons

7. Buyer’s Guide: Who Needs This?

The Hoover CleanSlate Plus is ideal for:

• Parents: Quickly clean up spilled juice, food, and muddy footprints.
• Pet Owners: Essential for accidents, vomit, and muddy paws.
• Car Enthusiasts: Saves money on professional detailing by letting you deep clean seats and mats at home.

If you need chemical-free sanitization (steam only), check out the McCulloch Steam Cleaner. But for extracting dirt and stains, the CleanSlate Plus is a top-tier choice.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave water in the tank?

It is recommended to empty both the clean and dirty water tanks after every use to prevent mold growth and odors. Rinse them and let them air dry.

Does it heat the water?

No, like most portable spot cleaners, it does not have an internal heater. For the best results, fill the clean tank with hot tap water.

Can I use any cleaning solution?

Hoover recommends using their branded solution to avoid excess foaming which can damage the motor. However, many users successfully use other high-quality carpet extraction formulas.

Is it better than the cordless version?

The corded CleanSlate Plus offers consistent, high-power suction that never fades, making it better for big jobs like detailing an entire car. The cordless version is better for quick grab-and-go spills.